Inorganic Chemistry Within Nanoreactors

Abstract

The confined spaces provided by colloidal systems, in particular by droplets in emulsions, can be considered as ‘nanoreactors’ in which chemical reactions can be carried out. In this chapter, we cover the possibilities offered by microemulsions and miniemulsions to synthesise inorganic nanostructures, including silica, metals, metal oxides and hydroxides, metal chalcogenides, and more complex inorganic systems. We review specific concepts of colloidal science related to the confinement within droplets and different related synthetic strategies. The formation of the intended inorganic compound can take place either within the nanodroplets, leading to nanoparticles, or at the curved liquid–liquid interface, leading to nanocapsules and hollow structures.